When Motorcycles Fly: Limited Edition Aprilia RSV4 RF Comes with Wings

Unfortunately, the Aprilia RSV4 RF cannot fly yet. What it can do, though, is be the first road-legal production superbike to have aerodynamic wings.

(All images taken from Aprilia)

 

These carbon fiber winglets - or, as Aprilia likes to call them, the “aerodynamic appendages” - are supposed to enhance stability for the rider of the bike. The technology is developed by Aprilia Racing directly on the RS-GP prototype used in the MotoGP World Championship. However, the winglets on this bike will serve a more aesthetic purpose rather than one of functionality.

Don’t be disappointed, though! Aprilia is currently working on an actual, functional winglet design to improve the handling prowess of the bike and will most likely be fitted on future production bikes.

 

Furthermore, equipped with a potent four stroke, liquid cooled, 1000cc 65° V4 engine, this machine is capable of going up to 201 hp.

Design wise, the RSV4 comes with new graphics inspired by the 3 colours of the Italian flag and the Aprilia AF1 250 that Loris Reggiani rode to the first of Aprilia’s 294 Grand Prix championships. Now an iconic representation of Aprilia’s racing history, the motorcycle also sports a big ‘A’ on the side fairings.

 

There will be 125 units of the RSV4 produced and will be made available to North America and Canada only. To further mark the exclusivity of this vehicle, there will be a ‘Limited Edition’ logo and unit number laser inscribed onto the steering plate.

 

The story behind this incredibly special machine makes it one of the most capable superbikes ever for a single model in the factory derivative category. Since 2009, this legendary motorcycle has collected 7 titles in the World Superbike championship. It also pays homage to history. As mentioned above, Louis Reggiani won the first world championship win on his AF1 250 GP.

Guaranteed to have an excellent set of mechanical and electronics in its package, this version as well as future versions of the RSV4 will definitely make for a powerful yet safe riding experience.

As for the flying part… Well, when there comes a day where motorcycles can really fly, we will make sure to update you.